Dog that limps
Do you have a dog that limps? It is not unusual for dog owners to experience that the dog begins to limp. Reasons why the dog limps are often because something hurts, but it may also be that the leg does not quite work properly without pain being involved. The reasons are many and vary greatly. Sometimes it is due to something as small as an insect bite, but it can also be due to a broken bone or illness. It is not always as easy as a dog owner to know whether to wait and see if it goes away on its own. We explain various reasons why your dog limps, what you should do and when it's time to contact a vet.Table of contents
Symptoms of lameness
The dog's lameness can vary depending on the cause. Some dogs may limp easily, while others may show more serious symptoms, such as obvious discomfort, tremors or avoiding putting weight on the leg. Other symptoms of lameness are if the dog licks its paw, changes in behavior and appetite, or if it does not want to get on its feet. Since lameness in dogs can vary in intensity and come and go, it is wise to be aware of changes in the dog's gait. Reasons why the dog limps - is it a serious problem? Dogs may limp on their front legs after rest, or it may limp on their hind legs after activity. The lameness can also come on suddenly, or gradually get worse. Different reasons for limping can look exactly the same, and connections that are not always as obvious can also be a cause of limping. It is therefore difficult to assess whether the limp is due to a serious problem.
- Reasons for a dog limping can include:
- Injuries and trauma
- Sprain or strain
- Cut or object under the paw
- Claw torn off or
- claw damage
- Joint problems, such as osteoarthritis or hip dysplasia
- Muscle spasms
- Viper bite or other animals and insects
- Skin diseases and allergies
- Intestinal inflammation
- Other illness or infection
- Congenital malformation
When should you contact a vet if your dog suddenly limps?
If you experience acute lameness as a result of an unfortunate fall or accident, you should seek veterinary help immediately. You should not wait more than a day if the leg swells, the dog shows signs of pain and discomfort, or does not step on the leg at all. There is a difference between growing dogs and adult dogs. If you have an adult dog that limps a little, it's okay to wait a little to see how it goes. If the lameness does not go away, or comes and goes, you should contact a veterinarian. A growing dog that limps should be checked by a vet straight away.
What happens at the vet?
At the vet, you can expect us to listen and ask questions to get a comprehensive picture of the situation. Next, we will pattern the dog, which means we observe how the dog moves. This can be how it walks normally, trots or walks in circles or stairs. We feel and squeeze thoroughly over the body on the legs, back and neck. Sometimes we find the cause of the limp quite quickly, while at other times more investigations are needed, such as X-ray, ultrasound, CT, MRI, blood test or pap smear. As lameness in the dog is only one symptom of several diagnoses, there is no one way to treat a dog that limps. Sometimes it's okay to keep calm painkillers for the dog to be declared healthy, while at other times it can surgery be necessary.
How to prevent lameness
To prevent your dog from limping, the best way is to give it regular exercise. Let it get quality feed and make sure the dog does not become overweight. If the dog's claws do not grind down naturally by themselves, you must help with the pot set. Clipping of dog's claws prevents them from growing too long so that they break or grow into the paws and cause pain. If you need help with nail trimming or have other questions about your pet, you are more than welcome to come to us veterinary clinic in Larvik! We will help you prevent lameness in dogs.
